Who Makes Weatherby Shotguns?
Weatherby shotguns have been a popular choice among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts for decades. The company’s reputation for producing high-quality, reliable, and durable firearms has made them a favorite among many shotgun enthusiasts. But have you ever wondered who actually makes Weatherby shotguns?
History of Weatherby
Weatherby, Inc. was founded in 1945 by Roy Weatherby, a renowned gunsmith and outdoorsman. The company started as a small manufacturer of high-end rifles and pistols, but it wasn’t long before they expanded their product line to include shotguns.
Current Ownership and Manufacturing
So, who makes Weatherby shotguns today? In 2019, Weatherby was acquired by the Overton Hill Group, a private equity firm. As part of the acquisition, the company underwent a significant transformation, including a move to a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Montana.
Montana-Based Manufacturing
Weatherby’s new manufacturing facility in Sheridan, Montana, is equipped with the latest technology and staffed by experienced gunsmiths and engineers. The facility has the capacity to produce up to 100,000 firearms per year, including shotguns, rifles, and pistols.
In-House Design and Manufacturing
Weatherby is known for its commitment to quality and innovation, and they take a hands-on approach to design and manufacturing. The company has an in-house design team that works closely with their manufacturing team to create custom-made firearms that meet the highest standards.
Parts and Materials
Weatherby shotguns are built using high-quality parts and materials, including:
• Barrels: Weatherby shotguns feature cold-hammer-forged barrels that are precision-machined to exacting specifications.
• Actions: The company uses a combination of steel and aluminum to create durable and lightweight actions.
• Stocks: Weatherby shotguns come with premium-grade walnut or synthetic stocks that are carefully crafted to provide a comfortable shooting experience.
• Receivers: The receivers are machined from a single piece of steel to ensure exceptional strength and durability.
Models and Series
Weatherby offers a range of shotgun models and series, including:
| Model | Description | Gauge | Chamber Length | Barrel Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SA-08 | Semi-Auto Shotgun | 12, 20, 28 | 3", 3.5" | 24", 26", 28" | 6.5-7.5 lbs |
| SA-459 | Pump-Action Shotgun | 12, 20, 410 | 2.75", 3", 3.5" | 22", 24", 26" | 7.5-8.5 lbs |
| BPS | Bolt-Action Shotgun | 12, 20, 28 | 3", 3.5" | 24", 26", 28" | 7.5-8.5 lbs |
| Orion | Semi-Auto Shotgun | 12, 20 | 3", 3.5" | 24", 26", 28" | 6.5-7.5 lbs |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Weatherby shotguns are made by Weatherby, Inc., a company with a rich history and commitment to quality and innovation. From their in-house design team to their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, Weatherby takes a hands-on approach to creating high-quality firearms that meet the highest standards. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, Weatherby shotguns are a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and durable firearm.
